Emma Bridgewater Limited has been fined £266,666 after a 12-year-old girl suffered a deep cut to her head from a shard of falling glass during a Christmas lights switch-on event at its Hanley gift shop. The incident occurred on November 23, 2024, when an artificial snow machine fell from a window opening above the shop, striking a light fixture and sending glass toward the child.
Details of the Incident
The girl was taken to hospital after being hit by the glass shard during a family outing. The snow machine, which was not properly secured, fell out of the building despite clear installation instructions from the manufacturer. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) investigation found that Emma Bridgewater Limited failed to assess the risks associated with the snow machine's use and did not ensure it was properly secured.
Court Proceedings and Fine
During a hearing at Birmingham Magistrates’ Court on January 30, 2026, the company pleaded guilty to breaching Regulation 10(1) of the Work at Height Regulations 2005 and Section 3(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. In addition to the fine, Emma Bridgewater must pay costs of £4,931 and a victim surcharge of £2,000.
HSE Inspector's Comments
HSE inspector Rob Gidman stated: "What should have been a festive event was marred by haphazard planning which left a young girl needing hospital treatment. Had the positioning of the snow machine been properly planned and the machine itself been properly secured, this incident could have been avoided entirely – and it’s fortunate the victim did not sustain more serious injuries. Christmas gatherings are a happy occasion, but it’s vital organisers thoroughly assess the risks and put in place measures to minimise the risk of harm to the public."
Company Background
Emma Bridgewater Limited, based in Lichfield Street, Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent, is a well-known ceramics manufacturer. The incident has raised concerns about event safety planning, particularly during festive seasons when public gatherings are common.
